MARIA PAZ HILLSIDE RESORT: A Hidden Paradise

This is a long overdue post. I thought I have already written about this place. Wala pa gali. Heheheh. So here it goes....

Hidden amidst the hills of Alimodian, Iloilo is one serene paradise that will surely let you escape your problems and soothe you back to calmness (yes, it did that to me ^_^).

the big pool

For our "tradition" of family outing after the New Year, we decided to relax at Maria Paz Hillside Resort for a change (we usually go to the beach in southern Iloilo). I don't know where exactly in Alimodian this is, but they say it is located at the the southern tip of another famous landmark in the town, the Agony Hill. All I know is that the road leading to the entrance of the resort is around 30-45 degree steep, so I know this was a good choice.

steps leading to higher terrain

And when I saw the big pool with the backdrop of lush green vegetation and native huts, and since there were not so many visitors that time considering it's a day after New Year, calmness overtook me. This was my dream property! 

Nipa huts above the pool

The resort is elevated so you could choose to stay at picnic huts beside the pool, or the picnic huts above where you could see the view of the resort. Maria Paz also offers rooms for overnight stay (Php 1,600 maximum of 5 persons). Picnic huts are rented for Php 200.

The tranquil view from the top. You can see the big pool, the jacuzzi, and the kiddie pool

I think this is part of the way of the cross

The only grilling station is located atop the hill, so it's best to choose the huts above. And it is best to bring your own food because although the resort has a canteen it is not well-stocked.

kiddie pool overlooking the big pool

Though there was no entrance fees, we paid Php 50 each for adults before we took a dip in their inviting pools. The big pool is 2-6 feet in height, and take note that no lifeguard is available so one must swim at their own risk. The jacuzzi pool can be rented Php 200 for 1 hour. 

Overnight rooms

Aside from swimming and eating, one thing you could also do to bond inside the resort is the ever-favorite of Filipino, Videoke! For only Php 5 per song we sang our hearts and lungs out over a number of songs to choose from!

better be ready with your Php5!

Ever favorite: RedHorse and baboy pulutan

So amidst this hidden paradise, complete with bonding time with family over great food, beer, and songs we had created yet another set of memories where we could reminisce and smile about. How about you, why don't you fill up yours in Maria Paz Hillside Resort?

What we didn't like about the resort was the staff were not that accommodating. Some of the huts especially those atop the hill were not maintained well that it might cause some accident.

How to get there

Ride an Alimodian-bound jeepney from Jaro Big Market (at the back of Jaro Cathedral Church)and drop off at the town center. Then ask around for tricycles that could take you to the resort. You might also want to let the driver know if you want to be picked up again if you are not planning to stay overnight.

MARIA PAZ HILLSIDE RESORT

Alimodian, Iloilo

Contact Persons: Dr. Marylou Alipao - 09088741929

Miss Marysol Amarillo (OIC, Municipal Tourism Office) - 09205674507